Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) is urging parents and young people to know the symptoms and act fast if they suspect meningococcal disease to help prevent premature death or life-long disability.
As we head into late winter and early spring, infections tend to increase, and risk is greatest for children under five and for 15 to 24-year-olds.
Last year, there were 59 meningococcal cases in NSW, and three of these were in the Central Coast.
“Thankfully these cases recovered but they are still three more cases than we would like to see on the Central Coast,” said Dr Katherine Todd, Acting Director of the CCLHD Public Health Unit.
2018 was also a horror year for cases on the Coast, with two women dying from the disease, including 19-year-old Mischelle Rhodes who’s death rocked the community.
“Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection.
“It is rare but severe in that a person can deteriorate quickly if the illness is not caught early.
“That is why people need to be aware of the symptoms and to seek medical advice early,” she added.
Symptoms usually start with a sudden fever, often with headache, nausea and drowsiness.
Neck stiffness, dislike of bright lights and a rash of reddish-purple spots or bruises may also develop quickly.
Babies with the infection may be irritable, not feed properly or have an abnormal cry.
“The reddish-purple rash is a well-known symptom of meningococcal disease, but it is important to know that it does not always occur or may present late in the illness.
“If meningococcal disease is suspected, don’t wait for the rash before seeking treatment,” Dr Todd said.
Seeking medical help urgently can be lifesaving because meningococcal disease can be fatal in up to one in 10 cases.
One in five infections result in permanent disabilities, including learning difficulties, sight and hearing problems, liver and kidney failure, loss of fingers, toes and limbs, or scarring caused by skin grafts.
Vaccination is strongly encouraged as a key prevention measure.
Under the National Immunisation Program, meningococcal ACWY (Men ACWY) vaccine is provided free for babies at 12 months, adolescents, and people of all ages with certain medical conditions.
In NSW, the adolescent dose is delivered through the school vaccination program in Year 10.
As of July 1, Aboriginal children up to the age of two years, and people with certain medical conditions, can also access free meningococcal B (Men B) vaccine.
NSW Health is investing approximately $140M in its vaccination program in 2020-21.
Source:
Press release, Aug 17
Central Coast Health